MORE otters are dying in Dorset, wildlife campaigners say.

Bosses from the Dorset Wildlife Trust have warned that the creatures are dying on roads as recent rainfall left them unable to swim under bridges in rivers.

Small ditches and streams are also holding more water, enabling otters to move through the landscape more easily, bringing them into increased contact with roads in the county.

In Dorset, otters are regularly seen in the River Stour.

The trust’s living landscape manager Amanda Broom said: “We are fortunate to have a wonderful network of rivers which support this beautiful enigmatic creature.”

If an injured otter is found in the road, contact Dorset Police if it is causing a hazard to drivers. If there is no hazard, drivers should call the Environment Agency on 03708 506506 who will advise on what to do.